Memoirs of William Miller - Sylvester Bliss

“A certain nobleman, about taking a long
journey, called together his servants, gave
instructions to every one respecting their work, and
commanded them to be faithful in their several
occupations; and, at his return, each one was to be
rewarded according as his work should be done. He
informed them how many days he should be
absent, but did not give them the time in the night
when he should return; but informed them that, if
they would watch, they should know when he was
near, even at the door. And he informed them how
they might know this: they would first see the
lights of his carriage in the distance, and they
would hear the rumbling of his carriage-wheels,
when they must go out and immediately open for
him the portal gates. Whether he should come in
the first, second, third, or fourth watch, he would
not then inform them; but commanded them to
watch.
“After he was gone, many of the servants began
to neglect their Master’s business, and to form
plans for their own amusement; and thus the days
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